Things You'll Need
Shovel
De-icer
Water
Bleach
Stiff brush
Slippery walkways can cause serious injuries to individuals walking on them. They pose a significant risk to the elderly and injured. Slippery walkways occur when snow or ice freezes on a walkway, or algae begins to grow there. You must give attention to your walkways immediately when you notice that they pose a risk. Armed with knowledge on how to prevent your walkways from becoming slippery, you can immediately lower the risk of injury to yourself and others.
Eliminating Snow and Ice
Step 1
Pay attention to weather predictions in your area. This will allow you to buy shovels or de-icers if you do not already have them. It will also help you predict whether you will be dealing with freezing rain or light, fluffy snow which require different techniques.
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Step 2
Apply a de-icer early in an ice storm, or a storm with heavy wet snow. You can choose between sand, rock salt, potassium chloride and other products.
Step 3
Keep up with shoveling once the snow starts if possible. If it is only a powdery snow, you can just brush it away with a broom. If you cannot keep up with it, just shovel it all away at the end of the storm.
Step 4
Apply de-icer again if there is any residual snow or ice on the walkway. Clearing the walkway from snow and ice completely will eliminate any slippery spots.
Eliminating Algae
Step 1
Eliminate any shade if possible. The wet, shady areas are most prone to algae growth.
Step 2
Mix together a solution of bleach and water. The solution should be about 10 percent bleach and 90 percent water.
Step 3
Apply the solution to the walkway, scrubbing with a stiff brush. Apply each time algae begins to grow to prevent a slippery walkway.
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